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Balsamic Chicken with Garlic and Herb Marinade Recipe

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3.9 from 13 reviews

Robustly flavored Balsamic Chicken marinated in a garlic, herb, and balsamic vinegar mixture, then grilled to perfect browned tenderness. This easy marinade infuses the chicken with delicious savory and tangy notes, ideal for a quick yet flavorful main dish.

  • Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
  • Yield: 5 servings

Ingredients

Marinade Ingredients

  • 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 Tbsp minced garlic (3 cloves)
  • 2 tsp minced fresh rosemary (or 3/4 tsp dried)
  • 2 tsp minced fresh thyme (or 3/4 tsp dried)
  • 2 tsp dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Main Ingredients

  • 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
  • 1 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Chicken: Place the boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts into a gallon-size resealable bag or a large bowl, ensuring enough space for the marinade to coat the chicken evenly.
  2. Make Marinade: In a mixing bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, dijon mustard, salt, and freshly ground black pepper until well combined.
  3. Marinate Chicken: Pour the marinade over the chicken in the bag or bowl. Seal the bag tightly after pressing out excess air, or cover the bowl. Massage and rub the marinade over the chicken, ensuring full coverage. Optionally, twist and tie the top of the bag to keep the chicken submerged in marinade. Refrigerate for 2 to 8 hours if using breasts, or 2 to 24 hours if using thighs, to allow flavors to fully develop.
  4. Preheat Grill: Heat the grill over medium-high heat, aiming for about 400 degrees Fahrenheit. As the grill heats, clean the grates thoroughly and oil them using a little vegetable or olive oil applied with tongs and a balled-up paper towel to prevent sticking.
  5. Grill Chicken: Remove chicken pieces from the marinade, shaking off excess liquid back into the bag or bowl. Place the chicken on the grill and cook with the lid closed for approximately 5 to 8 minutes per side, depending on thickness. Monitor closely and cook until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit for safe consumption.
  6. Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill. Garnish with optional fresh chopped parsley for added color and flavor. Serve warm as a flavorful main dish.

Notes

  • Marinating longer enhances flavor but avoid exceeding recommended times to prevent texture changes, especially with breasts.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is safely cooked to 165°F (74°C).
  • Fresh herbs can be substituted with dried; adjust quantities accordingly.
  • Oil and clean grill grates to keep chicken from sticking and ensure nice grill marks.
  • Serve with side dishes like grilled vegetables, rice, or salad to complement the balsamic flavors.
  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American